When Intergalactic Navy Captain Nathaniel Hawkins goes undercover to investigate the theft of an IN weapons stash, the mission raises painful memories from his past. Using a title he fled nearly two decades earlier, Nate once again becomes the Earl of Deverell, heir to the Duke of Hawthorne, in order to navigate the ins and outs of a Regency world. But planet Regelence—where young lords are supposed to remain pure until marriage—has a few surprises for Nate, not least of which is his attraction to Prince Aiden.

A talented artist, Prince Aiden Townsend isn’t interested in politics and the machinations of society gentlemen, and he adamantly rejects the idea of marriage and a consort. Aiden wants the freedom to pursue his art and determine his own future. But the arrival of the dashing and mysterious Deverell awakens feelings of passion and longing the young prince can’t deny.

As Nate uncovers a conspiracy reaching far beyond the stolen weapons, his future is irrevocably altered by the temptations of a life he never thought he could have. Drawn into the web of intrigue, Aiden is in danger of losing his life… and his heart.

Second Edition, First Edition published by Samhain Publishing Ltd., June 2007.

I didn’t pick up this one initially because I was already familiar with the series. It’s one of my favorites. However I found out later that author is editing the books for republishing so I hopped along for the ride.

I read a lot of historical romances when I first came across the series. The similarities are a bit more obvious than I remember. It’s very sweet. I now prefer my MM romances with more edge but I still read historicals so this was almost as much fun as it was the first time. It’s a mix of historical romance, sci fi and MM story (and I like all of it)
The story flows naturally and the pacing is good. Characters are lively and intriguing. I’m currently resisting the urge to reread Regelence Rake and wait for updated version. (Because Sebastian. Sigh.)

It’s an amusing and light hearted read. It’s not complicated story there is almost no angst to it and it keeps happy tone almost constantly. I like the regency trope but shy away from historicals because happy endings clash with reality so this was favorite with a reason. I hope the plans for additions to series come to fruition. (As an aside, I would love the same for Ranch series from the same author)

Author

maya

1 comment

Thanks for the review. Thanks goodness a good review of this. I was starting to wonder, only b/c I had liked this when I first read it, but that was when I was just cutting my gay fic teeth; and I’ve read a whole lot since. Probably wouldn’t see think the same of this now, but Istill like, as you do, the mix of sf, historical and mm.